TLDR; I first joined Koss Etc., a family office that invests in and incubates brands, as an intern, shadowing the CEO and learning the ins and outs of running a company. It was a real “put me in, coach” situation where I begged to take on anything and everything to learn as I went, and verrrrryyy long story short, took a leave of absence from school to work full-time. In that role I managed financial operations, supported fundraising rounds, led hiring initiatives, and coordinated high-level strategy across the portfolio.

Most of my work centered around co-leading Magic Science Corporation (now Magic Molecule), an FDA-approved wound cleanser built on hypochlorous acid, a compound our white blood cells naturally produce to support healing. I was with the company from its earliest days through its merger and acquisition, after which I chose to exit and return to Columbia.

Magic Science Corporation: My Role Across Phases

Q: “So, what is it? Wait… is it skincare?” (Because everyone asks.)
A: Not exactly. Magic Molecule is FDA-cleared as a wound cleanser. It happens to also be safe and effective for skin conditions like acne, eczema, and post-procedure healing, which is why dermatologists and beauty press picked it up. But at its core, it’s a medical-grade technology that just happens to cross into the consumer space.

Phase 1: The Lab

  • Oversaw communication of early lab case studies and research findings

  • Managed the process of translating lab results into investor materials and FDA documentation

  • Oversaw the patent application process to protect the stabilization technology

  • Served as the primary bridge between scientists in the lab and the business side

Phase 2: The Genesis

  • Built and managed company budgets and cash flow from the ground up

  • Ran payroll and implemented financial controls

  • Recruited and onboarded the first employees, overseeing HR processes

  • Established the operational backbone that allowed the company to scale

Phase 3: Market Position

  • Led the translation of scientific data into consumer-facing messaging

  • Positioned the company around key differentiators: FDA clearance, safety, and shelf-life stability

  • Directed the preparation of investor decks and fundraising materials

  • Oversaw alignment between scientific credibility and consumer trust in market positioning

Phase 4: The Sell

  • Managed operations through fundraising, media recognition, and scale-up

  • Coordinated strategy across CEO, investors, and the lab team during merger & acquisition

  • Ran day-to-day operations from inception through the company’s acquisition

  • Exited post-acquisition to return to Columbia and continue my studies